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The Houses on Parliament

The Houses on Parliament – (454 Parliament St, just south of Carlton) We’ve been here several times over the last few years, including while they were still at their old location which was next door to the current one. The old locale was small and cozy with a lowered patio facing the street. While it could be argued that the new location is less quaint, they are now in a beautiful renovated house with more space that retains the Cabbagetown charm. This is an upscale pub but clearly a ‘local’ complete with regulars and people stopping at other tables on their way out (neighbors, probably). The main servers are all large, friendly men, who all seem to enjoy what they do. We’ve never felt anything but welcome coming in for a late night snack, midday drink, or for the dinner rush.

The Drink

J loves the wide and rotating selection of drought beers. While a good pub has historically been one of B’s favourite places, not being able to have beer has tempered the love. Houses’ inclusion of the wonderful Waupoos Cider (from Prince Edward County) on the menu is greatly appreciated.

The Food

Making plans over the phone it became apparent that if we didn’t get food immediately there would be dire consequences, so The Houses of Parliament was became our middle ground with service that shouldn’t take too long. Check out the extensive menu online, but be ready for a full page of extras- the Daily Specials. It was from this menu that B selected his meal- a rack of baby back ribs atop sweet potato fries and half a roasted cob of corn. The ribs were excellent with great bbq sauce while the sweet potato fries were as good as they always are- highly recommended if stopping in for a bite and drink. J normally lusts after the spinach salad with goat cheese, pear and candied pecans but this time went for the Club, which she sheepishly requested sans bacon, and was pleasantly surprised to see that with the fantastic piece of bread and generous fillings that it didn’t feel like it was missing anything. The Houses of Parliament is highly recommend for those in the Cabbagetown area, or for anyone wanting to try some great quality pub food.